Spotlight: Susan De Lisle
Have you met Chef Susan De Lisle yet? Chef Susan is originally from Queens, New York and trained at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park. Most recently, she worked at the Spring Mountain Racetrack and Country Club. She's been the Food Director at Dawson for three years and you can learn more about her in this edition of the #DawsonSpotlight.
How long have you worked for Sage Dining and how long have you been at Dawson?
I have worked for Sage for 3 years. I was hired by Sage specifically for Dawson. This is my third school year here at Dawson.
What inspired you to become a chef? What motivated you to become a school chef?
I have always loved to cook. I knew I wanted to go to culinary school very early. I loved watching Julia Child and Jacque Pepin on PBS. I thought working at a school would be great. I have three kids and always want them to have healthy meals. So, why not make sure as many kids as possible can have healthy meals?
What’s your favorite thing about working at Dawson?
The students and staff here at Dawson are my favorite part. Everyone is friendly and so appreciative. It really makes you feel part of something great.
What is one thing about you that would surprise students?
I used to be a chef for a racetrack and I would travel with the racers sometimes and cook food for them at racetracks all over the country. Sometimes in my spare time, I would help in the garage and assist the mechanics a little. I also drove some cars on track too.
What helps you feel strong?
I feel strong when I set goals for myself and keep at it to accomplish them. I also feel strong when I keep pushing myself, no matter what obstacles come my way.
What does Stronger Together mean to you?
When you work as a team, communicate and strive for the same goals. A united team can accomplish anything.
What are you most proud of?
I am most proud of my three kids. I am also proud of the food my staff and I work together at to serve the Dawson Community.
Do you have any career highlights that you’d like to note and share with our community?
I did several weddings for clients that were not near a kitchen but very intricate menus and I was able to execute it all to their wishes and keep it hot and nicely plated.
Thank you for sitting in the spotlight, Chef Susan!
Watch her QuickFire Q&A in the hot seat on IG Videos!
Thank you for sitting in the spotlight, Chef Susan!
Watch her QuickFire Q&A in the hot seat on IG Videos!
Check out all of our #DawsonSpotlight features here.
The Alexander Dawson School
The Alexander Dawson School at Rainbow Mountain, an independent school located on 33-acres in the community of Summerlin, is Nevada’s first Stanford University Challenge Success partner school for students in early childhood through grade eight. Utilizing the unique Challenge Success framework, Dawson uses research-based strategies and programs that emphasize student academics, wellbeing, and a healthy school-life balance to create more engaged, motivated, and resilient learners and leaders. At Dawson, students achieve their individual potential while savoring life and meeting the challenges of the world.